New chickenpox vaccine available to children
A new chickenpox (varicella) vaccine has been introduced to protect children from this common but sometimes serious illness.
Now, children born on or after 1 July 2024 will be offered a combined measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine at 12 and 18 months of age.
There will also be a single dose catch-up vaccination available for children aged up to six years who have not received their first dose or have missed a dose and have not had chickenpox before.
Heather Johnstone, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board , said:
“Children, especially those with underlying health conditions, are regularly admitted to hospital with complications from chickenpox. The introduction of the varicella vaccine will make a real difference in preventing these cases and ensuring children stay healthy.
“It’s really important that families take up the offer of vaccination when invited, as it provides the best protection for their children and helps stop the spread of the illness to more vulnerable people in the community.”
Matthew Missen, Consultant in Public Health, added:
“This is a really positive step for families across our area. The chickenpox vaccine has been safely used for decades and is already part of the routine vaccine schedules in several countries, including Canada, Australia and Germany. While many people think of chickenpox as a mild childhood illness, it is highly contagious and can cause serious complications for some people.
From January 2026, parents and carers will receive invitations when their child is due to have the chickenpox vaccine. Vaccinations will usually take place at GP surgeries as part of the routine childhood immunisation appointments.
Children eligible for the catch-up programme will also be contacted by their GP practice. Parents who think their child may have missed a vaccination can speak to their GP, practice nurse or health visitor to check and arrange an appointment.
